Code of Conduct Policy

Adopted 3/21/2011

CODE OF CONDUCT POLICY

Cranberry Public Library patrons are expected to use the library, including its facilities, grounds, resources, and materials in a responsible, appropriate, and courteous manner. Illegal acts or conduct in violation of federal, state, or local laws, ordinances, or regulations are prohibited. Behavior that disturbs or infringes on the rights of other library patrons, staff, or volunteers, or which damages library materials and/or property is not permitted. This policy applies to patrons of all ages.

Actions prohibited include, but are not limited to:

Engaging in disorderly conduct; drunken, dangerous or threatening behavior; fighting or challenging to fight; running; or using offensive or threatening words which disturb the good order of the library, and any other behavior that is disruptive to library use.

Stealing, damaging, altering, or inappropriately using library property in the library or on library grounds, including library materials, computer hardware and software, printers, copiers, phones, furniture, and other equipment.

Refusing to comply with requests by members of the library staff to comply with library policies.

Using offensive or threatening behavior and language or behaving disrespectfully toward a library employee, volunteer, or patron.

Blocking entryways, vestibules, book returns, restrooms, or other common areas.

Any forms of harassment - physical, sexual, verbal - of library patrons, staff, or volunteers. Harassment may include initiating unwanted conversations, impeding access to the building, stalking, and the like.

Leaving a child under the age of 10 unattended by a responsible adult (18 years or older). (see also Youth Safety Policy)

Misuse of restrooms. Smoking, bathing, hair-washing and doing laundry are not acceptable.

Possessing weapons or explosives of any kind on library property, except those worn by uniformed officials.

Indecent exposure.

Gambling.

Using sports equipment including bicycles, skateboards, and other wheeled devices in the library, with the exception of motorized ADA devices, wheelchairs, walkers, and strollers.

Trespassing in non-public areas without the permission of library staff.

Abuse of borrowing privileges.

Littering.

Noncompliance

Failure to comply with this policy and/or the library's established rules, regulations, and procedures will result in a warning and may also result in exclusion from the library for the day or for a specified period of time or permanently, and/or arrest.

Library staff and volunteers will not hesitate to call the Cranberry Township Police if they feel there is an imminent danger to patrons, staff, or the library facilities.

Any person who is asked to leave the library as a result of violating these guidelines and refuses to do so shall be considered trespassing. The library staff will contact the Cranberry Township Police Department in all such cases.

Any patron whose privileges have been denied by library staff may appeal the decision to the Cranberry Township Library Board of Trustees within thirty (30) days of the decision.